#  36 - September 1965 

[The New Zealand Naturist - Spring] Editor: Perc Cousins (Pages: 36 - 2/-)

Contents:-

Editorial
How to Join a Club
Quote of the Month
Speech by Councillor Howard on Open Day (North Kent)
Readers Have Their Say
From the Editor
Peggy 4
Talking About Books
Topless Frocks 4000 Years Ago
We are Naturists! by Joyce of Pineglades
Fiji Interlude
Health, Happiness and Holiday by Roy Carson
On the Inside Looking Out
News from the Clubs (6)
NZSA Visits HB Sun Club
NZSA Notes - 14th National Rally of NZ Nudists, Esperanto, The Reluctant Nudist, National Scrapbook, Change of (your) Address, Processing Agfa Films, Official Correspondence, Perc Cousins Trust Fund
National Rallies in NZ (reprinted from the 13th Rally publication)
Health in the Sun
Talking to Women with Gaynor
Directory: (10)

Noted

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THE NEW ZEALAND NATURIST
NEW ZEALAND'S ONLY
NATURIST MAGAZINE

A VALUABLE CONTRIBUTION TOWARDS A BETTER WORLD

 

NEW ZEALAND SUNBATHING ASSOCIATION
P.O. BOX 6359, WELLINGTON

President		Perc. W. Cousins, Wellington
Vice-Presidents		Ray Clark, Christchurch Jock Shoolbread, Auckland
Secretary - Treasurer		Doug. Cousins, Wellington
Public Relations Officer		Gavin Robieson, Wellington
Overseas Correspondent		Les Guyton, Invercargill
Youth Organiser		Philip van Dusschoten, Wellington
Women's Representative		Gaynor Robieson, Wellington
Delegates representing all clubs
N.Z. NATURIST
Editor		Perc. W. Cousins
Business Manager		Doug. Cousins
Artist		Bob McIver

Cover photo by Roy S. Carson

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OVER the years, scores of magazines, bulletins, newsletters, club papers. etc. pass through this office and they all tell the same story. And they will go on saying the same thing, in one form or the other, for years to come.

This magazine is saying it, too, and we hope, will go on saying it for years to come.

And the story that is being told, over and over, is in reality very, very simple. Just that the practice of nudism, or naturism. if you prefer it, is pleasant, healthy and very sensible.

Unfortunately, so many people refuse to believe these facts and so we have to keep on repeating them, serving them up in different ways to maintain a degree of freshness and interest.

Even if such were possible, we do not want everybody to agree with us and start applying for membership in our clubs. Far from it. but we would like you to believe what we say as true and leave those of us who are convinced and like to practise nude sunbathing. to carry on in the privacy of our camps without interference.

Because of the misunderstanding and prejudice about our beliefs, we are criticized. We are told we are slightly abnormal or maybe, just seeking a thrill. We must be unusual to break from convention to the point of appearing naked before others in a similar condition.

Well, you are entitled to your opinion, of course, but if you knew the facts, you would understand that there is nothing more moral and helpful and that among like-minded people, nothing is more natural and enjoyable.

We would like you to believe that, in order to help, we have literature on the subject, available from this office. We can supply you with back issues of this magazine and we will be pleased to answer your queries.

If you are still not interested, then please do not criticize something of which you know nothing. You can rest assured that the practice of nudism is here to stay and it is here to stay only because it is good and of benefit to the nation. Hundreds of people the world over would not be members today if this were not the truth. Think it over.

- Perc. W. Cousins

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SUN   CLUBS   IN   NEW   ZEALAND

 A NEW SERIES OF VITAL
INTEREST TO READERS

 

 

IF YOU'VE been trying to make up your mind about joining a sun club, don't hesitate any longer. There is nothing to be gained by waiting and now is an ideal time to send a letter to the secretary of the club of your choice. If accepted. you will be able to meet other club members at the off-season socials under normal dressed conditions and you will soon be made to feel "one of the gang" and all ready to join in ncct season when the sun warms up again. You will meet a friendly bunch of people who will make you feel at home and as you will possibly b able to see films, slides aid photos of activities, a lot of your feared embarrassment will he overcome.

All you have to do is write to the secretary, giving as much information about yourself as you can, in order to give him some idea of the person who is applying. He would like to know if you arc married and if so. whether your wife and family, if any, share your interest. Tell him what sunbathing experience you have had, how long you have been interested and what made you decide to join. Such things as whether you have your own transport, and are willing to lend a hand with the maintenance and development work around the grounds will help, and anything else you feel he should know.

CHILDREN ARE NATURAL NUDISTS

Always enclose a stamped, addressed envelope and you can rest assured your information will be kept confidential. In fact, it is a recognized rule in all clubs that if you want it that way, everything about you will be kept confidential.

The next step, you will either be invited to meet representatives of the committee or someone appointed to interview applicants will arrange to come to your home for a chat. If this proves satisfactory, you will be advised of the next step, but it usually means filling in a form and possibly paying an entry fee or a subscription. In the case of a family joining as a unit, much of this formality is dispensed with.

In any case, if you feel this is being over-cautious, remember that when you have become a fully-fledged member, you will appreciate the care being taken to ensure that only genuine people are admitted, people who will respect your confidence.

Most members who have hesitated in the past wish they hadn't delayed so long, for nudism in an official club is one of the healthiest and most relaxing experiences. Your children will be in your everlasting debt, too. If you would like to chat things over before committing yourself, the secretary will be glad to arrange that for you too. We all know about the embarrassment that has been holding you back and due allowance is made for it. You will be put at your case at once, and you will find that every step will be made easy for you. especially when you finally enter the grounds.

One final word of warning. All sorts of people try to join our clubs, some very desirable and a few others who soon get weeded out before they get very far. If you are one of those, don't waste your own and our time, for you will be found out sooner or later. But if you are really genuine in your desire to become a member, and can uphold the high moral tone expected, there will be a most cordial welcome awaiting you. Send that letter off now!

 

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SATURDAY, 23rd MAY, 1964

 

"LADIES and gentlemen of the North Kent Sun Club. First may I say how delighted my wife and I are to be present with you at this your Open Day of the season.

I would like to preface my remarks by telling you a little story. It is the story of a young lad: he was brought into this world at the end of the Victorian era. He was brought up believing that the whole nature of the human race was divided into three separate planes. On the top plane were the angels, on a slightly lower plane were all the ladies, somewhere down below were all boys and men. This boy knew that all men were rough and ready. They suffered with many of the restrictions of nature. hut all ladies appeared to him to be so different. For years he went on believing that no ladies had legs at all and actually he was quite an advanced age when one day he was walking past a shop and saw a statuette in the shop - probably Venus or some other such character - and was staggered, startled and shocked from the fact that here was a female figure and she had legs.

Now this is not very surprising when one realizes that this boy was brought up in the condition when every woman wore her dress right up to her ears. She had whalebones holding lace right round her neck, her dresses swept the ground and the only time when this lad knew that there was anything under these voluminous skirts was when the toes peeped out and he believed that the toes were hooked on somewhere underneath but that there were no legs attached; the whole body was held up by the vast amount of clothing these women wore. Now this is a perfectly true story because I was the youth.

Now, you have the courage to come out here and start a sun club in which all of you are allowing your children to participate in nature to the full. I was going to say nature in the raw! I congratulate you on it. I would say that I was staggered when I came here. I knew this wood very many years ago when it was nothing more than a scrub land; before you ever came here; and I used to wander in this wood. I was, in those days, a fairly eminent bee keeper and just over in Vinson's farm opposite I had 30 to 40 hives, so that I knew this land very well. I knew where you were when I received the invitation.

I came into it and saw the scrub on the edge and then I came in here and I was staggered. I think everyone of you is to be warmly congratulated in having produced amenities that exist here for the recreation and for the enjoyment of you all. I am very surprised, staggered, to see the beauty that you have created out of what was a woodland wilderness.

I am delighted to be here. I wish you every success and I hope the sun plays games with you and a hot summer will let you enjoy to the full the facilities that you have created."

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Readershave their say ... 

 

ANOTHER BOUQUET

While we were in England we received issues of naturist magazines from different countries, and we can truthfully say that the NZ Naturist is tops as far as we arc concerned. It is a friendly, family magazine, and its greatest attraction is that it is not commercialised. and we hope you can keep it like that. Carry on with the good work. You are doing a grand job.

- Frank Hulmes, Australia

NUDISM v NATURISM

Your magazine reminds me a great deal of our American ones of perhaps ten to fifteen years ago. With the retouched photos, and some of the articles sound a lot like we did here at that time. Just to comment on a few.

First I do not care for the names "Naturist" or "Sunbather". I am a nudist. To me the name naturist brings to mind one of two kinds: either a hermit type that has gone off into the woods to exist from the land or the little old fellow with the grey heard who goes around studying flowers and plants. As for sunbather, I feel this is misleading, since the amount of time we spend sunbathing is a small fraction of the time we actually spend in the nude.

My wife and I feel that nudists are people who prefer to dress comfortably. We go nude at home as well as at camp. My wife would not think of doing her housework any way except in the nude. There are occasions that call for being dressed of course, such as cold weather, going to town. etc. But if there is no reason to dress, why bother? Even if all you are doing is sitting around having a chat over a cup of coffee it is more comfortable and enjoyable in the nude.

I will be most happy to send you more photos for publication and forget the compensation, if they help the nudist movement then this is compensation enough. I fear you will have to do some retouching though. It's a shame too as I hate to see retouched photos; they just do not look natural and nudists of all people should appear natural.

- Dave L. McDonald, Honolulu

(For an opposite view, please see "We are Naturists" below.)

 

SOME MEN ARE TOO SHY

For many years I have been a "furtive naturist" (issue 34, page 13) and have only recently joined the CCBN Supporters Section. I know there must be many more "furtive naturists" dodging about the world as I have discussed naturism with quite a lot of friends both in and out of the Army. They all enjoy naturism but appear to be shy to take the initial step of joining a club. Some are too shy to even write away for information on the subject!

- Cpl P. D., England

WE TOLD YOU SO

When I first took my clothes off, all my fears were unfounded. I found I wasn't even stimulated. After I had been there for two days, I felt really free. I didn't have a care in the world: all my troubles were lifted from my shoulders.

- HDR, Blenheim

THOUGHT THERE WAS NO NUDIST MOVEMENT IN NZ

I honestly believe that naturism would be of great assistance to juvenile delinquency in our changing world, also it is my belief, it can be the answer to immorality. However I feel I could write more fully on the subject, which needs deeper concentration.

I became more interested in naturism, after visiting the United States. I had no idea before, how popular nudism is overseas. While in America I bought two magazines on nudism and after reading them I realized just how important it is to their way of life, and my thoughts went back to NZ. But I came to the conclusion that NZers are too narrow-minded to follow up nudism as practised in America. However, I am now surprised after reading your magazine that NZers are making good progress towards a better understanding in naturism.

However, these are just my thoughts, and I wish you every success for the future advancement of naturism. I noticed your clubs are for couples, with which I agree while naturism is in its infancy in NZ, but if it is to progress, more single people should be admitted, for various reasons I have in my mind after reading about America.

I am now a widower, with a son 6 years, so I have not got the companionship I used to have, so I will not be able to join a club.

- MAL, Auckland

(Ed. You have the wrong idea my friend. Genuine single people are usually admitted to any club in NZ, so don't be downhearted.)

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While acknowledging the many complimentary comments about our magazine from readers, we all must recognize that an editor can only achieve what his contributors make possible. We have a number of very co-operative helpers: writers, photographers, artists and others whose contributions are making our venture a success. Our thanks go to each and everyone of them.

The circulation is growing, but still barely enough to cover the cost of the numerous improvements we are introducing. I will not be happy until our circulation is doubled, enabling us to present the cover in full colour, but meantime we are doing our best to provide good reading and something of interest for everyone.

"True Experience" is one of the features introduced in this issue. Many members must have had similar experiences. How about sharing them with our readers? They can be serious or humorous.

I would like to include a large picture portraying our "Beautiful New Zealand" in every issue and would welcome any photos suitable.

We also commence the new series, "Sun Clubs in New Zealand" and when space permits, we will present some aspect of nudism as applied to our clubs throughout the country. These will be written by experienced nudists and will carry authoritative comments borne of experience.

We are also preparing a series of articles of considerable interest whereby we will record historical events. Titles will include "Early Days of Nudism in NZ", "Rallies in NZ", "Our National Magazine" etc. which will place on permanent record many aspects of early history that should be of great interest and importance to this growing movement.

Readers appear to have enjoyed the story about Peggy, so a new serial is promised in the near future.

We are always glad to take note of readers comments, so in an effort to keep the reports from the clubs lively and avoid unnecessary repetition, we are presenting them in this issue in a slightly different form. We hope you approve.

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THE STORY SO FAR Having been more or less unwillingly taken to a nudist club by my daughter, Peggy, I was amazed to discover how unembarrassed everybody appeared to be. Peggy's boyfriend and his folks had brought us Out and we were introduced to various members, all of whom were quite nude. After a while I began to envy them and after meeting old Morgan from the office, I felt anything could happen. In no time at all, I got dragged into helping a work gang laying the foundations for a new clubhouse, while Mum was helping get the tea ready. It all happened so smoothly, I wasn't really aware of it, till it happened. It almost looked as if the whole thing had been planned..

AS I SAID before, it was getting hotter, so it was the most natural thing in the world to take off my shirt and singlet and I felt a lot better. As I directed Shorty and Harry with the string and the level, I began to secretly envy them their freedom. Like the others I had met, there was not the slightest trace of exhibitionism, even though they were naked and I had to admit to myself, whether I liked it or not, that it was sensible enough. If there were rude remarks or frequent reference to their nudity, it could be different, but right then, there was none. They were just getting on with the job and their nudity was quite by the way.

All the same, I was not game to take my pants off. And then something happened. Joe rang an old school bell and that was the sign to knock off and "come and get it". Just like on the job, I thought, but this was different. The chaps dropped their tools and took their turn under the shower with the soap. One by one they dived into the pool and as Harry escorted me over, he said, "How about it?"

That's all, and he knew darned well there was nothing I would like better. I looked over to the Osborn's bach. No sign. OK, I thought, this is it. Over the top and into the enemy's firing line. Off came the pants, socks and shoes and in I went. Boy, was that water good? When I surfaced, I found myself selected to play for the All Blacks. A large beach ball appeared from nowhere and all you had to do was to pass the ball to your own side and not let the others get it, no holds barred. Gosh, how childish can you get? I forgot all about the tea, as we lashed the water to foam after that kid's ball. We grabbed, we lunged, we yelled, we dived, we did the whole lot and when nobody could remember the score, we came out panting and happy.

As I walked over to the bach, with my clothes on my arm, I realized that I had spent a quarter of an hour of sheer, unadulterated joy and I began to get a glimpse of a few things that were pretty hazy before.

Arriving at the door like the proverbial drowned rat, I was greeted with gales of laughter from all except Mum and it was easy to see there were some pretty mixed up thoughts going on in her little topknot. However, all hut she were in their birthday suits and I just noticed tubby Mrs Osborn had about 4 double chins all the way down and that all of them were an art shade of copper brown; the people and the double chins. After I had had a rub down and as Peggy came over with a cup of tea. I looked at her proudly. Standing there, quite nude and unconcerned. I realized that here was something I was beginning to understand. something beyond the average comprehension, but something that was really wonderful. I saw that, just as the children in their games were innocent and free, so were these people. There was obviously not an evil thought amongst them. Peggy was radiantly happy, for she knew I was converted and it was easy enough to understand her feelings. So we took our lunch outside and Mrs Osborn made sure no one was left out of the conversation. I would have given a quid to know what Mum was thinking about. I felt very comfortable, except when I looked at the others. My white midriff marked me a tenderfoot and I could not help admire the even tan the others had. Before lunch was over, several parties arrived and I found myself feeling sorry for one young lady who was obviously another newcomer. When she peeled off her clothes, she looked like a zebra, two awful looking white bands between the brown. Anyway, I was wondering whether I could leave Mum and give the boys a hand. when another party arrived. Boy. this was where the curtain went up on the pantomime. It was none other than Mrs Forester and her retinue.

BEAUTIFUL NEW ZEALAND •   THE FOUR SISTERS - GIANT KAURI TREES

She looked around, saw us and in a few majestic strides, had come before us. We'd already been told the Osborns were Gregory and Christina and that's how they wanted to be addressed, but I couldn't imagine me calling Mrs Forester, Penelope or Gladys or what-have-you. But that was where I was wrong. In no time it was just plain, common Jane and when she took off her clothes it seemed to do something to her. Gone was the haughtiness and although she was still the president, the rough edges were sort of sandpapered. She had a husband and about 5 kids and the grounds now began to look busy.

Tenikoit games got under way with the more energetic and Mrs Osborn, beg pardon, Christina, never stopped talking. Another of those coincidences - or were they - happened, for there was a cry of, "Volleyball" and Gregory just yanked me to my feet with the comment. "This is something you've just got to try. Come on."

I looked at Mum, but Christina answered for her. "Go on," she said, "We've got a lot to talk about." As if there was anything left, I thought, so we joined a dozen people for volleyball.

This was something like the water polo we were playing before, only a lot more refined. With six a side, you punch the ball over a high net and keep it off the ground and within the boundaries. I soon learned you could pass it to a player on your own side and after a bit of fluffing, I found it to be highly skilful and exciting. Dennis and Peggy were in the pool. Yvonne was OK with her friend and I noticed the 3 women had disappeared. No doubt all part of a plan, I thought, and let it go at that.

After our side had been well and truly licked, I began to feel the sun on my white midriff, so decided on another swim and a spell in the shade. Boy, was I feeling tired, but did I feel good? After a rub down and as I lay on my back gazing at the leaves above, I felt very contented. Yes, I decided life could be pleasant. But wait a minute! What about Mum? Couldn't imagine her coming to any harm, but perhaps we had better have a look around. Just then Joe came over with the visitors' book to sign and I asked him if he knew where they were. He grinned and cocked his thumb.

"You follow that track through the trees. That's the way to Hide Park. Spell it with an i. It's a quiet corner amongst our best bit of bush and it's very useful for new chums to get used to the idea."

So I went down the track to Hide Park. You know I was sort of expecting it, so I wasn't surprised. Yes, there she was, bless her, looking as pale and as insipid as a new born babe. Gosh! She was white compared with the others, but there was all of her there and all of it was uncovered. Christina only stopped talking long enough to call me over and I could see Mum had got over her initial shyness and appeared to be really enjoying herself. She remarked about my pink middle as nonchalantly as if she was telling me I had a smut on my nose.

"You're sold," I thought, so just found a spot in the shade and left them to it. As I lay there I remembered our firm decision not many hours previously, that we would just go and have a look, then go straight home. Um! That'll be the day. Not on your sweet life. This will do me.

And so the time passed all too soon. I had to promise the work gang I would take over from Curly and we were nominated for membership before we left. Getting back into clothes was a bit irksome and a bit sore in certain places. We left with real regret, but promised to be there the next day. Peggy was so happy she was nearly crying with delight.

As we got out of the car back home, I thanked the Osborns for all they had done and for the tactful way they had done it. I felt they had changed the whole pattern of our lives and told them so. They seemed to be happy about it and made us promise to go round to their place after tea and see some of their slides and movies taken at the club.

That night as we were turning in, Peggy came in. She put her arms around us both and kissed us. She said something about being happy and started to thank us. You know, I was a bit touched and I know Mum was, for she suddenly couldn't find her hanky. I took the girl by the shoulders and said very simply, "It's not for you to thank us, young lady, it's we who need to thank you. I tell you straight, a year ago you had us worried, and I came home this week prepared to get pretty tough. But it wasn't necessary, was it? Now you go to bed and dream about your Dennis."

In the doorway she turned and countered, "And what are you going to dream about, Dad?"

The only reply I could think of at the moment was, "Possibly my pink bottom."

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This is the concluding instalment of the first of this series. Issues 33, 34 and 35 including the rest of this story are available from this office at half rates. As soon as possible we will relate an early experience in Dennis's life that had a marked bearing on his future activities. Following this, as soon as space is available, we will commence the second story in this series describing how Dennis became a nudist. Watch for it!

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PLEASURES STRANGE AND SIMPLE

by William Sanson

"Sexual morality does not seem to have been much affected ... there is probably no more illicit love than anywhere else. Probably less ... for clothes themselves and particularly French clothes ... are aphrodisiac in design and in any case by their function of concealment create mystery and provocation."

(This is a factual report of the author's holiday on the Ile du Levant and illustrates a non-naturist's viewpoint after witnessing the freedom enjoyed by naturists there.

THE DREAM GOES BY by Edward Carpenter

The grown man hand in hand with his little girl,

walking the woodland path;

With brown uncovered bodies, both of them,

so glad, content, unconscious;

And all the wealth and beauty of the world is theirs.

The sun shining on their limbs, and in their minds

the long results of human culture.

THE SEA WALL by L. A. G. Strong

"Waiting no longer, Nicky flung himself in, gasped, and threshed his way out to join his brother. The water sang and tingled against his limbs. It searched out every crevice and hollow of his body, filling it with a joyous purity. Nicky knew no sensation so exhilarating, so holy, as that of bathing naked. He plunged his head down, and lashed out with arms and legs in joy at the resistance, the rushing, sparkling cleanness of the sea."

 

SONG AGAINST WINTER
Ben Trovato

In winter when the icy winds    Their cheerless chorus sound, And running nose and bleary eyes    Show flu is going round. I'm sure I'm not the only one Who yearns for summer's glowing sun.	When city noise and dusty air    Surround the daily chore, And chilly rain in winter time    Provides the final straw, Our thoughts to Oranui turn And for the summer's smile we burn.
Then naked in the friendly sun.    Repose again we'll find, With refuge from the city's din    And tranquil peace of mind, When work that simply must be done, When nude, becomes relaxing fun.	Roll on, you useless bitter months,    Till winter's course is run, And spring, with fresh, reviving air    Calls up the new-made sun, Preserving in its golden wealth The nudist recipe for health.

 

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OUR ARTIST HAS DEPICTED WOMEN OF THE MINOAN CIVILIZATION 4000 YEARS AGO. TAKEN FROM PIC- TURES THAT HAVE SURVIVED, THEY INDICATE THAT THE WOMEN WENT BARE-BREASTED AND DISPLAYED SELF-ASSURANCE AND PROUD DEPORTMENT. IT APPEARS THEY WERE WASP-WAIS- TED, USED HEAVY LIP ROUGE AND EYE SHADOW AND THEIR HAIR-DO'S WERE MOST ELAB- ORATE, INTRODUC- ING JEWELS AND BEADS.
THEY WERE HANDSOME AND A CREDIT TO THE AGE IN WHICH THEY LIVED. WOULD THAT WE COULD BE AS BROAD-MINDED TODAY

 

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MAY I complete the triangle by joining in with the discussion begun by Gavin Robieson, (A Rose by any Other Name), and continued in the next issue by A. Leon Gilbert, (The Bare Truth, We are Nudists).

Several years ago, I lived in the heart of London and found myself every weekend looking for some quiet place where I could go and have a picnic and get away from the hubbub of civilization.

After several months of roaming in Regent's Park, wandering on Wandsworth Common, kicking around Kensington Gardens, browsing in Battersea Park and causing consternation by attempting to sunbathe on Clapham Common clad in a two-piece bathing costume, I was, following a lucky series of events, introduced to a sun club, Diogenes in Hertfordshire and found there the very things I had been looking for: quiet, secluded woodland where, if one felt so inclined, one was able to sunbathe without clothes, swim, play games or work on improvement of the grounds, or just laze in the sun in the company of congenial friends.

The most popular game at the club was badminton, played with wooden bats, and before long I teamed up with a special partner who eventually became my husband. To quote the club report: "Two of our members decided to become one." Then as the years went by, our four children spent happy hours in the safe environs of the club.

We are just ordinary people who have hit on a good way of spending our leisure time. It baffles me now how people can be missing it, especially in a country so sunny as New Zealand, and as there are groups of us in most parts of the world, we must call ourselves by some simple descriptive title. The choice of the majority in the northern hemisphere is the term naturist, but we find that there is a strong nucleus of people here determined to stick to what they consider the more straightforward and honest word, nudist.

However, let's face it, the term nudist puts people off. It carries an unfortunate association of ideas: a crank, someone who is fanatical about going around without clothes.

Speaking for myself, I am not particularly addicted to being without clothes, (in fact, I like clothes, especially when I have a good sun tan to show them off) and therefore decline the label of nudist. I like sunbathing and agree with Gavin Robieson that this appeals to most people (and who likes sunbathing with clothes on?), but to call myself a sunbather would be too narrow a term, for we as a family enjoy all sorts of activities at our club besides sunbathing. If we must have a title, we'll be naturists. What if the word is a comparatively new invention, so are the sun clubs. New movement, new name, and let's have some new thinking and attitudes of mind on the part of the others: those who have not tried it yet.

Here is a fruity description of a ship we call "X" by Amy of the Wellington club last year. We quote: "My trip over was not so good. I was 'ick, 'ick, 'ick. Don't recommend the X to anyone. It has a permanent list, and ooh, my dear, it's fair 'orrible in a swell. Apart from leaning too far to the right, it hops along on one leg, hasn't a clue how to meet the waves, it's got lousy vibrations, which do not lessen even in calm weather. Seems the designer committed suicide, because it was not seaworthy. The construction was changed, but it still lists quite a bit."

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"Sunshine Holiday" the article was headed in the last issue. And what a picture it brought back to me; swaying palms, golden beaches, calm, sparkling seas, but no real sunbathing. Fiji in very truth, and everything that it said was true.
 

AS AN example, a young fellow was sunbathing in remote sandhills, and surprised by some Fijian men, was locked in a shed until he could be handed over to the police. His subsequent fate I never learned.

But there are exceptions. If you could find a hotel by a beautiful beach, where the manager and his wife are keen naturists and the guests are few, you, too, might be invited to go swimming as nature intended, every morning at 6 o'clock when the water has a little nip, but the sun is warm. Then a cup of tea and a yarn in their buré or hut built on native lines. Then back to your room for a shower, and breakfast with a worthwhile appetite. During the day there is always sunbathing in little pockets in the scrub, unapproachable from behind and with a good view along the beach.

"But does no one come down in the morning?" Never. The guests, when there are any, like to lie in, and the natives who work at the hotel are busy, and there isn't anyone else.

And so it was until the last day when my friend, his wife and I were sunbathing in the nude. The water was lovely, and the sun without a cloud in the sky was warm and caressing, when over the sandhills strode a fat, jolly man in swim togs, a man with a beaming smile, at peace with the world, and just wanting to be friendly. Perhaps it was our expression, perhaps not, for he stopped suddenly, and the smile went, like a dog that expected a pat and received a kick.

My friend froze where he stood, his wife forgetting for the moment her terror of sharks, and I as a reporter would have described it as she was last seen swimming strongly in the direction of New Zealand. Panic having subsided, the husband, who for some mysterious reason was wearing trunks, decided to retrieve the only article of apparel his wife had on the beach, the lower part of the smallest bikini I had ever seen, and gallantly waded out with it concealed under one arm. Suitably submerged, she raised one leg and disappeared. Up again, down again, now you see her now you don't, till finally arms wrapped around in a vain effort at modesty, she came out of the water and disappeared at speed over the sandhills.

I, being of only secondary importance, was still between the devil and the sharks. Last day in the district, togs packed away! At last, chancing to notice I had not reached NZ, and was still in the land of the living, my friend waded out with a towel. This being a factual account, I feel that I must relate, however reluctantly, what followed. Standing just out of reach he said: "I'll sell it to you for £10."

At this point the stranger, deciding at long last that we were mad or bad, left for parts unknown at a smart gallop and the troubled land had peace again.

Well, you many find the hotel and the beach, for they are still there and the waving palms, the golden sunshine, and the sharks too, no doubt, but doubt whether you will find the hosts who love the sun just as my friends did. No, they're not there now, but far away under colder and greyer skies. So as far as we know, the naturist movement in Fiji, in spite of its one great moment, is no more.

 

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NOT FOR me the endless community established each Easter Bank Holiday on the roads of Britain, thousands wreaking their "peace of mind", vying with one another in the "Snails Race" to the sea in one almighty exodus from London City, Once there a fleeting glimpse of a sandy foreshore and, luckily a glimpse of the sun, too, and they're back again on their Carbon Monoxide way home,

No, I just caught a train from London's Charing Cross and in a little under an hour, I found myself strolling along Lye Lane, Hertfordshire, without a care in the world, oblivious to the worries of living, revelling in the peacefulness, birds singing in the hedgerows, all undoubtedly glad to be alive on such a wonderful day. A wind vane towered above the trees in the not-too-far distance, a landmark to every naturist who visits Spielplatz, at which I arrived quite soon. Up a short laneway overhung by branches of birch and I was welcomed at the gatehouse by pretty Maureen, who is soon to settle in New Zealand, when she emigrates later this year, just in time for the NZ summer. Lucky Maureen: two summers in one year.

First of all, as I was not a member, I had to undergo several formalities, I accomplished this MASSIVE task in a matter of seconds, name and address (treated confidentially, of course), occupation, name of another member and lastly my signature, paid my fee (12/6 for a day or 30/- for 4 days) and was finally, irrepressibly, "On Holiday".

After I had undressed, I set out to discover Spielplatz. it is a pleasant place, admirably sited, not too far yet not too near a regular bus route. No longer is naturism a belief and practice of the wealthy only, for for the sum of 5/10 one can reach the club from the centre of London, surely a boon to those city folk who want to get away from it all.

There are 3 badminton courts, a splendid swimming pool with, of course, a special pool for the kids to paddle in. Meals and light snacks can be purchased at reasonable cost in the clubhouse, where one is sure to find Bertie Evans, the genial warden, ready to answer the many questions posed by the "undecided" ones. Usually they go away happily convinced. There are lots of sunning spots where one can attain a healthy tan or at any rate, a mild attack of skin peeling.

Such is the set-up, which is far from dull and which has resulted in Spielplatz being well named, "The Birthplace of Naturism". The newcomers to naturism, and there are many, can sample it first hand without the fuss and bother usually associated with membership in other clubs. Here I met Ken, a merchant seaman on holiday, to him a means of getting away from the hustle and bustle of life; up at dawn, to bed at sunset, the hours between spent in cleaning out his chalet, bathing and generally enjoying that feeling that all naturists enjoy. Here also I met Bob, a physicist and Denise, a schoolteacher, who had brought their 3 children for a day's outing. The reason for their interest in naturism is simple: seeing the way the kids enjoyed playing naked, they reasoned, "If they enjoy it, why can't we?" At first they practised privately, but home facilities rarely permit and usually omit to take into account Peeping Tom neighbours. Well, nothing for it but to take the plunge, and this they did at Spielplatz.

The canteen facilities are good and adjoining it is the TV lounge. Dorothy Macaskie, a director, is the "boss" of this section, where one can get a meal without the bother of queuing. such as one would have to face in a Bank Holiday by the Sea, where one invariably finishes up with fish and chips.

After a day of badminton, swimming, sunning, talking, eating and casting predictions as to the weather of the morrow, it was soon time to go. Anyone not in residence is required to leave the club not more than half an hour after sunset.

Again, reluctantly, the short walk along the lane, now made even more beautiful with the first buds of May illuminated in the dying rouge of an April sun and back again on my 5/10 travels to the bustle that is everyday London. Traffic jams, seaside smog, fish and chips on the prom - not on your life mate! You can have 'em. Give me a 5/10 ride to Happiness, Health and a Holiday, with lots more days to come at Spielplatz.

Photographs are promised for the next issue.

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           by
GORDON SCOTT
 
 
 
 
 
 

 

TALKING TO MEN

A couple of issues ago, the women's page contained some rather sharp blows at the egotism of the male sex. Gaynor accused the men of really being the shy ones and not the girls. Well, she has really got herself into a spot of bother and has appealed to me to try and deliver a bit of man talk to the blokes who have gone after her scalp.

It appears from many of the letters she has received that many men consider they have a real cause to be shy and it would be impossible for them to join a nudist group. They point out that their physical reactions to seeing unclothed women would be so obvious their length of stay would be extremely short, to say the least.

Do you know, after reading some of the letters, I actually got the impression that these guys were serious; serious to the point of actually convincing themselves that nudist males were different from themselves. Not only men who have written in expressed this view, but many on the outside I have spoken to before I attempted to write this article. The general male viewpoint is "I would not be able to control myself at the sight of a nude woman".

That final thought is, I think, the major stumbling block to a great number of men, who sometimes think the nudist way of life has something to offer in other ways, but are prevented from even seriously discussing the matter because of this overriding fear of embarrassment. In a club one day I was conducting a press reporter around the grounds and we had got on famously, he fully clothed and I in the customary garb of members on a bright summer's day. After numerous questions about this and that, he got around to it. In a far corner of the grounds with not even an insect to hear, I heard, "With all these lovely girls about, how do you blokes control your emotions?" I looked him straight in the eye and said, "You've been here and hour and a half. fully dressed, have you had any trouble with yours?" To this he confessed that, surprisingly enough, he hadn't, and therein, you men, lies the answer.

I don't know the reason for this state of mind and at this stage I could go into a long dissertation, bringing in all the usual stuff about the prudish outlook of the outside world and its teachings that the sight of a naked body must be erotic. This in turn reacting on the minds of men, etc., but I don't think this is necessary, because we know that not all naked bodies are erotic and even the most ardent critic of nudism can find no objection to, say, a naked baby.

 

 

SUNBATHING IN A SUN CLUB IS CHEAP AND EFFECTIVE

On the other hand any naked form, even a statue, can be gratifying if it is approached in that frame of mind. However, this latter extreme form of perversion is rare and about the last place there is any room for it is in a sun club. The people in a sun club are not freaks, they are normal, everyday people, indulging in activities that thousands of outsiders are doing at precisely the same moment: swimming, sunbathing, playing sport, picnicking and just talking to their friends, the only difference being that the majority of them will be doing it in the nude.

Admittedly the first sight of a sun club in full cry gives a bit of a jolt to the most hardened system, but that soon goes and very soon the newcomer is right in the swing of things, all past fears gone and on the question of men showing their emotions, the big tough guys who were so timid at the start, will be the first to tell you, "Man, there's nothing to it".

So you genuinely shy people, I assure you there is absolutely nothing to fear. There are hundreds of men in the New Zealand clubs who are exactly the same as you, so why don't you come and meet them and see for yourself?

MEETING THE PEOPLE

There recently took place a meeting unique in the history of New Zealand nudism. A group of club members actually met the people of the surrounding district of a club and explained to them the ideals and activities of nudists. As this was the first time anything like this had been tried, it was difficult to foresee just how things would work out and the members were prepared at question time, for what they thought would be the usual line of queries, you know: Why, How and What For? But no, the people wanted to know how we fitted into the community. How do the young people of the district react to a club? and so on. The most significant thing being that not once were the morals or the integrity of the members questioned, in fact during a discussion on why Christian names only were used, the non-members present felt it was a pity that we were forced into such tactics by a few over-zealous prudes.

I sincerely hope a great number of such meetings can be held in the future as sessions such as this advance our cause more rapidly and help us to attain a place in the community.

News item from the Gay Nineties: "Woman dies. $25,000 found in bustle." That's a lot of money to leave behind.

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N E W S F R O M  T H E C L U B S I N  N. Z.

 

By far the most interesting news this time is activity in areas that have been dead spots on our national map. Quite a surge of interest has been brought about by the removal of club members to these areas and we now have busy groups doing their best to form clubs in TARANAKI, WHANGAREI and TAURANGA. As most members of the last two are keen yachtsmen. we may have clubs "afloat" next summer. We also have a keen family in WESTPORT now, anxious to know how to contact others in their district. The NZSA is right behind these ventures and hopes to have some really good news very soon.

 

Our friends in the WAIKATO report monthly socials in members' homes. where the main topic of conversation is their need for a club site. They took advantage of the last of the good weather to take a trip to Arapuni, hut the party was forced to retreat before an invasion of sandflies. to a more uninhabited stream. Here some of the brave ones took a splash under a waterfall, which was somewhat cool, but refreshing. Membership is growing steadily.

 

THE CANTERBURY SUN AND HEALTH CLUB, like naturists everywhere, take a real interest in the weather, almost as much as farmers, though it might be hard to say which group grumbles the most when skies cloud over at the wrong times. So it is easy to imagine how pleased local members were to have had such consistent sunshine when their club was host to the 13th national rally early this year. As if to remind them that this was one aspect where they could not claim credit, the 6 or 8 weeks immediately following the rally were real "teasers" with hot, sunny work days and dull or wet weekends. This lead to dire forecasts about what could be expected for Easter, hut as if to make amends for a disappointing February and March, those 3 days in mid-April were gloriously sunny. On Easter Sunday, a floral arts show was held. and though the number of entries was slightly less than last year, a good standard was maintained.

 

After the perfect weather at Easter, it was somewhat of a setback for the HAWKE'S BAY SUN CLUB to have to report that in the cold spell in the beginning of June they had nearly 6 inches of snow. As it was on a Monday it didn't worry the members. They don't worry about the cold anyhow. as, with a good open fire in the lounge, the women can sit and knit in a temperature of up to 85 degrees. The lounge which used to be 2 rooms has had the intervening wall removed and now covers an area of 25xl4. Work of painting and paperhanging goes on every Sunday. while the fence which was erected for the Easter visitors unfortunately blew down and still awaits renewal. A couple of keen workers planted 200 trees at Queen's Birthday weekend and as most of these died others will have to be procured to replace them. Stock seem to like the taste of them so fences are being built to keep the trees out of harms way.

 

A level area of lovely new grass now adorns the new camping ground at the WELLINGTON SUN AND HEALTH SOCIETY'S Fiveacres, and all it needs now is to consolidate; the picture shows the final stage of the levelling and it gives some idea of the size. Tons of spoil have been dumped on the access road to make an acceptable gradient from the main playing area. Plans and specifications for the new flush toilet block have been approved by the local body and boxing is going up and septic tank dug, the resultant spoil being used to fill several needy places. A half ton truck, donated by a member, is doing yeoman service and has now become a permanent adjunct of the grounds. A team of willing workers is busy preparing the pool for filling soon and work goes on in the clubhouse. Social evenings, arranged every last Saturday in the month, will conclude in November with the usual bonfire and fireworks.

 

The KAURIMU SUN CLUB reports that with the sun so low at this time of the year at midday, the lawn is in shadow, so the space levelled for their new clubhouse dome has become the favourite sunning spot this winter. The site for the dome, 20ft above the lawn and pool, was chosen because it receives the sun all day, every day, all winter long, whenever there is any sun. All material for the dome has now been purchased and Al is busy prefabricating it. His boss is very interested in the project and has been most helpful in getting material and supplying storage and transport. (An article on this dome will appear next issue.) A recent work party has been repairing the track down to the pool and putting in some new concrete steps.

 

The AUCKLAND SUN CLUB tells us that their members have had their ups and downs this winter hut are coming right again now. Their social programme started well with an informal evening and members are welcome every last Saturday in the month. They would particularly like to congratulate the Hawke's Bay Sun Club on their novel approach to the public, as reported in the last issue. It should be of considerable value to the movement generally, so they wish all the best to our new member club.

 

From away down south the SOUTHERN SUN AND HEALTH CLUB says there has not been much activity lately as they are really in the grip of winter, It struck with a vengeance when heavy falls of snow caused some of the worst disruptions of communications in the history of the country. They have been approached by the Invercargill City Council for a donation of books and literature to the Public Library so that they may start a section on the nudist movement, if they can do something along these lines, we would get a great boost, as they have been assured that this literature would be made available to the general public.

(Top)

 

THERE has to be a first time for everything and the HB Sun Club has the honour of being the first club in NZ to take advantage of an offer made by the NZSA to permit executive members to visit them. This gives a young club the opportunity of gleaning some encouragement and a few suggestions from experience. As they had just acquired new grounds, the time was most opportune. And so it was, last Easter, when 10 members of the Wellington club, including NZSA personnel, travelled to Hawke's Bay. The party also included 4 of Wellington's teenagers, a splendid means of encouraging a group of fine, young people, most of whom were fairly new to the movement.

In calm sunshine, with the promise of more to come, they covered the 200 miles, arriving mid-afternoon on Good Friday. The grounds are roughly midway between Napier and Hastings, well into the hills, being 10 acres amidst rolling grazing land as far as the eye can see in all directions. Unfortunately the 10 acres rolls too, leaving only about 2 acres sufficiently flat enough for use. On this stands a 2 bedroom house, which boasts an electric stove, fridge, flush toilet, etc. not forgetting a huge garage and tool shed adjacent. Screening is an immediate problem and cypress trees to be planted this winter will augment a wooden fence erected as a temporary measure. A metalled drive has been formed from the main road and cars can now negotiate this in bad weather.

By a stroke of good fortune, the neighbour to whom the hilly part had been leased for grazing, turned out to be a nudist and he and his wife and family are now not only enthusiastic members, but as they live quite near, they can keep an eye on the property.

In no time at all, the visitors settled in, 2 in a caravan in the car park and the rest with lilos and sleeping bags in the house. Apart from a donated sack of potatoes and two pumpkins, the visitors were self-supporting and the cooks turned on some wonderful meals for the party and the 2 local members who stayed overnight.

Every evening saw the gang gathered round a roaring fire in the lounge where films and slides were of great interest to all, giving opportunity for a question and answer session frequently.

Each day turned out calm and sunny and although the mushrooming rambles over the hills were disappointing, the peculiar rock formations were amazing and never failed to draw interest. The locals, who had never played any nudist games, soon erected a couple of poles and strung up a net, to be initiated into a game not mentioned in the book of rules. No one was sure whether it was teniball or volleyquoits, but it was a lot of fun and no doubt started something a little more serious for later on.

As a further favour, and apart from gallons of fresh milk each day, the neighbour produced a horse. Being entirely docile, it proved a great attraction to the city types and movies should be amusing if not spectacular.

But the highlight of the whole weekend was when we turned up at a nearby hall one night for the purpose of talking to the neighbouring farmers. Harmonious relations arc important to any club and HB Sun Club have certainly started off on the right foot. A small but attentive audience listened to an address by the Dominion president, who concluded by inviting questions. These came readily enough and were answered by Gavin as Dominion PRO, Gaynor as national women's representative or the president, to the obvious satisfaction of the audience.

THE HOUSE, GARAGE AND CAR PARK

While supper was being prepared (by the farmers incidentally) they were invited to sign a form, clearing the club of responsibility, in order that some of our films could be screened. These were well received and by the time we had finished chatting and had packed up, it was past midnight. A spokesman for the audience thanked the party for the enlightenment they had received and assured the local club president that they would have no trouble from them. In fact one lady enquired whether she could enlist her teenage daughter, in order to give her a better outlook on life. These neighbours could well be proud to have law-abiding people with such high moral standards in their midst.

And so came to an end an enjoyable and profitable weekend. Much helpful advice was offered and we can confidently expect bigger and better things from our friends in Hawke's Bay. They have worked hard, they have courage and with a wonderful climate and two fair-sized towns from which to draw members not far away, they deserve to prosper. Readers will be able to read of their progress in this magazine in future issues.

 

A NOTE OF INTEREST TO TREE LOVERS

We are informed that 45 years ago, the big New York daily newspapers used about 15 acres of trees to make the paper for each issue. They need a lot more today. If all the text paper used to print the 1963 Encyclopaedia Britannica was pulled from one huge roll, it would circle the earth 17 times.

(Top)

New Zealand

Sunbathing Association

Notes

The pool at Fiveacres

14th NATIONAL

RALLY OF

NZ NUDISTS

To those intending to visit Fiveacres in Wellington for our next big get-together from 30th Dec. to 3rd Jan., l966, we advise that full information will be found in the loose leaf sheet enclosed (NZ issue only). The rally committee is "full steam ahead" and energetic working bees will ensure that everything will be ready for your comfort and enjoyment.

ESPERANTO

Should any readers be interested in corresponding in Esperanto, there is an international organization recognized by the INF. Write to Leif Heilberg, Internacia Naturists Organiso Esperantista, 1832 Page St. San Francisco 17, Cal. USA. They publish an illustrated magazine in Esperanto and welcome members from all over the world.

THE RELUCTANT NUDIST

The distributors of this nudist film advise that it is scheduled for screening as under: State, Masterton, Oct. 5-7th; State, Timaru, Oct. 12-14th; Carlton, Hamilton, Nov. 2-4th; Kings, Gisborne, Nov. 30-2nd Dec.; Embassy, Wanganui, Dec. 7-9th.

NATIONAL SCRAPBOOK

The NZSA has been collecting cuttings from various papers for many years. In the course of time, this will be a valuable historical record of nudist happenings in NZ and we urge everybody to kindly forward copies of anything suitable for inclusion, including source and date.

CHANGE OF ADDRESS

A surprising amount of mail is returned to this office marked "address unknown". It will be a definite service to us all if subscribers and others will notify us of any change in their mailing address.

PROCESSING AGFA FILMS

The NZSA has now concluded satisfactory arrangements, the same as those now existent with the Kodak Co., with the Agfa Co. for the processing of films including nude shots. They must be channelled through this Association. so all films should be sent to this office in the first place. They will be returned by us. as the responsibility for censoring is now passed on to us.

OFFICIAL CORRESPONDENCE

We frequently have trouble with letters incorrectly addressed. Perhaps this will help.

President: Only personal letters should be addressed to him.

Editor, NZN: All articles, photographs, comments, etc. in connection with our magazine.

Business Manager: All subscriptions, advertising, or matters relating to finance connected with the NZ Naturist.

Secretary: All correspondence intended for the NZSA.

Treasurer: All matters relating to subscriptions, levies, fees, Perc. Cousins Trust Fund and other questions of finance.

PRO: Matters relative to public relations, publicity, advertising within the NZSA. Overseas Correspondent: Information, photographs, reports, etc. to assist in presenting our case overseas.

Women's Representative: Women seeking advice, help or encouragement or those willing to contribute to her page.

Youth Organizer: And finally, all you youngsters and teenagers should write to this officer, who is anxious to help you.

And the address for all the above is

P.O. Box 6359. Wellington.

PERC. COUSINS TRUST FUND

Donations are always invited to help build up this fund, which is available for any worthy project, or to assist any needy or worthwhile case within the movement. Applications would be considered by the NZSA executive, and while none have been received to date, it would be nice to have a substantial sum available if and when the need arises.

Proof of the continued interest in the fund is evinced by the contributions received since the last issue. We gratefully acknowledge the following: Balance on hand £161/14/10; Proportion of 4 club levies £8/16/6; FNL, Auckland £3/10/-; BH. Wellington 15/-; RDH, Ohakea £1/4/-; Dick Whittington, AOHC £1/10/-; WHT, Tokoroa £10: AMS, Australia 9/6; Smaller donations £1/3/2. Total now is £189/3/-.

 

 

HOW TO COOK A PRESIDENT

Select a young, strong and pleasing personality.

Trim off all mannerisms of voice, dress and deportment.

Pour over all a mixture of equal parts of the wisdom of Solomon, the courage of young David, the strength of Samson and the patience of Job.

Season with the salt of experience, the pepper of animation, the oil of sympathy and a dash of humour.

Stir for about 2 to 3 years amongst 40 or more members who have diversified aims and work, testing occasionally with the fork of criticism.

When done to a turn, after the hot and strenuous 2 to 3 years, garnish with no salary and let loose on the community.

From the New Zealand Townswoman

 

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IN 1953, when there was very little organized nudist activity in New Zealand, an idea was born. It was as startling as it was ambitious for those days, as it not only embraced the idea of bringing scattered nudists together to one central point, but it meant that we could obtain first-hand information about various local conditions, and possibly set the ball rolling towards some sort of organized structure. Few of us had ever met one another and we were just names, so to come together for the first time was an exciting prospect.

We knew nothing about organizing such an event and were not sure whether it would meet with support anyway, but the more we thought about it, the keener we became to at least make the attempt.

The Wanganui Sun Club had the only available grounds suitable at that time and with the consent and co-operation of Ivan and Nora, dates were fixed, circulars prepared and mailed and we decided to go ahead with our first rally on a national scale.

We were delighted to welcome some 38 adults and 19 children, representing 8 areas, plus a visitor from Australia for this 2-day event. It was nearly all play and no work for the visitors, and it was consequently voted a success. Proof of its popularity was evidenced by the expressed wish to hold another the following year.

This second rally was again held in Wanganui and it saw some 48 adults and 10 children, representing 10 areas this time. It was during a discussion on the second afternoon when the proposal that the organizing work I had been doing voluntarily should be officially recognized and as a consequence, I became the National Organizer of Naturists in NZ, a title I held for several years. In view of this, donations were invited to cover some of the expenses involved, which I had been meeting from my own pocket for years.

This rally was also a success and we were delighted to accept a joint offer from Kaurimu Sun and Auckland Outdoor Health Clubs to hold the third rally in Auckland.

It was held in the grounds now occupied by the Kaurimu Sun Club, some 56 adults and swarms of children being assembled. This was the first occasion when the Press was invited, Truth and the two local papers being represented. Fears were silenced when all the papers came out with very good and factual reports. This was also the first rally when movies were taken.

By this time it had become generally accepted that these annual get-togethers should become a permanent feature of the NZ scene and as each one arrived, we learned a little more about how to run them, deleting some ideas that were not popular and continually trying out new ones. Our experience was useful, for as the rallies grew bigger and bigger, the problems grew also.

Rallies 4 and 5 were again held in Wanganui, but by this time, club grounds had been secured in Christchurch and Wellington, and it was decided to hold number 6 in the "Mainland".

The atrocious wintry weather will always be connected with this rally, but of more importance, it was here that the NZSA was formed and clubs were levied on a membership basis to cover expenses which were increasing considerably. It was also during this year, May 1956 to be precise, that we launched our own magazine, then called the National Review, consisting of 8 duplicated pages with a circulation of just over 200.

With the 7th rally held in Wellington, it was being recognized that these events were becoming big business and coupled with the added donations of extra trophies for competitive inter-club sports and growing national business, more time was needed. And so they grew to three days duration and then four, and now it is a tight squeeze to get everything in in four days with an additional day for NZSA business.

Number 8 went to the Auckland Outdoor Health Club and was held on the grounds they now occupy, while number 9 went back to Wanganui. This was the only rally I was unable to attend, but reports suggested that it burst at the seams in every direction, indicating that it would not be possible to hold another rally at that site.

It was heartening that several members came forward to accept appointments on the NZSA Executive to relieve me of the far too heavy burden I had been carrying.

Number 10 went to Christchurch again and here a canteen and hot showers really started something. Number 11 was held in Wellington and an outdoor concert was a first. With number 12 again at AOHC, hot meals created something new and now we come back to Christchurch for number 13.

With increased know-how, it is pleasing and surprising how members have met and overcome the numerous problems of organizing these major events. Each club introduces its own novelties and does its best to ensure the comfort and happiness of its guests. These days members come in their hundreds and travel long distances and the three largest clubs are now the only ones with the grounds and facilities to sponsor these big and important national assemblies.

We started in a small way with our courage in both hands. We succeeded and laid secure and solid foundations. The future is in your hands.

The plain working truth is that it is not only good for people to be shocked occasionally, but absolutely necessary to the progress of society that they be shocked pretty often.

- George Bernard Shaw

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•  GROWING OLD

"Every individual grows old on his own pattern," says F. Henshen, of Stockholm, Sweden. "Aging is in a large degree governed by heredity, as has been implicated in cardiovascular disease, diabetes, cancer and senile dementia. A greater role, however, is played by environmental factors such as occupation, conduct of life, exogenous diseases and accidents."

"Retiring people must learn that inactivity accelerates the ageing process and that activity preserves physical and psychological health," he says. "It is of particular importance for the individual not to give up too early; likewise it is in the interest of society to make full use of the working power of old men and women."

Premature ageing was most frequently noted in either overstrained intellectuals or in those living irregular lives. In these latter patients, incidence of asthenia (lack of strength) was high. Most cases of longevity were found in mountainous areas, and those who had lived to be 100 years old had been manual workers.

- Health

 

 

 

 

 

 

•  NEVER DRIVE IN ANGER

According to a group of New York psychiatrists, it is more dangerous to drive your car when you are angry than when you are drunk. They believe that emotions—stemming from such everyday conflicts as an argument with the wife or exasperation with the kids — are the prime cause of traffic accidents. Dr Joyce Brothers, a psychologist, said: "There is no question that anger can affect vision, sense of judgment and muscular coordination. Many accidents are the result of flare-ups and quarrels at the breakfast table."

- Health

•  THAT'S AN AWFUL LOT OF MONEY

Postscript to the criticism of Dr P. D. Delany, chairman of the N.Z. College of G.P.s that 70 per cent of antibiotics and many drugs are 'prescribed indiscriminately' in New Zealand: pharmaceutical benefits cost £3 1s 11d a head last year, a total of £7,913,566.

(Top)

with Gaynor

I WONDER how all you other Sun Mothers are feeling at this time of the year? It is quite the worst part of the year for sun lovers, isn't it? Everything about us seems so cold and wet and dreary-looking that it is hard to imagine that there have ever been days full of fun, sunshine and relaxation, but there has been and there will be again as I was reminded the other day.

I was reading one of Howard Spring's earlier novels called "My Son! My Son!" and had reached the passage where William Essex first visited his newly acquired summer home in Cornwall. He was thrilled with the peace and quiet and to quote, It was a grand feeling: the relaxation of body and mind, the sun soaking into every pore, the utter silence". William Essex was proud to think that he had made enough money to buy this haven for his family.

It was at this point that I thought, "Well, how very fortunate are we, who are members of a sun club. For we too, have a place to go to relax both mind and body, to swim, to take part in all aspects of healthy sports and to have either complete peace or to mix with our other club members as the mood takes us."

It was therefore this novel which pushed me out of my morose frame of mind and made me want to write a few lines in this article to mothers who have not yet joined a sun club and therefore cannot know how very wonderful it is to have an exclusive camping ground and a private swimming pool to go to on weekends and summer school holidays, where everyone is your friend as well, not to mention the social activities which always go with club life.

These Christmas holidays will be ones of great activity for our own club here in Wellington, as we are to be hosts for hundreds of sun lovers during the annual rally. This is a particularly wonderful time, for we all renew acquaintances and make many new friends from all over New Zealand. Each years I am struck by the comparison of the nudist youth, their health and vitality and clean attitude toward life, and some other young people I have met in youth clubs. This, I think, is one of the biggest factors in our way of life, to bring our children up to be able to treat the body and sex as normal and natural, not as something dirty and to be ashamed of. Wouldn't you agree?

The annual rally is four days packed full of holiday fun, swimming sports, volleyball, etc. Then we all relax and have the rest of the school holidays to devote entirely to our families, for the clubs as a whole are made up of families. So really, mothers, what more could we ask, when we have our children, our husbands (no going off to golf or the pubs or fishing etc.) and these fabulous club grounds? Surely it is heaven on earth! What a pity so many of you are missing so much.

If I can help you or if you can help others with your comments or experiences, please drop a line to Gaynor, P.O. Box 6359, Wellington.

NUDISM ENSURES TRUST BETWEEN MOTHER AND DAUGHTER

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CLUB DIRECTORY The secretaries of the clubs listed below will be pleased to hear from genuine enquirers. Please enclose a stamped, self- addressed envelope. AUCKLAND OUTDOOR HEALTH CLUB Inc. P.O. Box 2702, Auckland. AUCKLAND SUN CLUB Inc. P.O. Box 2925, Auckland. KAURIMU SUN CLUB P.O. Box 20015, Glen Eden, Auckland. WAIKATO OUTDOOR SOCIETY P.O. Box 139, Putaruru HAWKE'S BAY SUN CLUB P.O. Box 551, Napier. WANGANUI SUN CLUB P.O. Box 410, Wanganui. WELLINGTON SUN & HEALTH SOCIETY Inc. P.O. Box 2854, Wellington. CANTERBURY SUN & HEALTH CLUB Inc. P.O. Box 1823, Christchurch. OTAGO SUN & HEALTH CLUB P.O. Box 2058, South Dunedin. SOUTHERN SUN & HEALTH CLUB P.O. Box 486, Invercargill. If you are not close to any of the above clubs you may like to know that other naturists are ready to form clubs in the following areas; to contact them, write to: N.Z. Sunbathing Association, P.O. Box 6359, Wellington: Whangarei Masterton Tauranga Nelson Rotorua Blenheim Gisborne Westport Stratford Timaru Palmerston North

SOLAR incorporating SUN REVIEW        AUSTRALIA'S NATURIST MAGAZINE Profusely illustrated From your newsagent or direct from the publishers 3/6 per copy, 28/- per year GOLDRAY PUBLICATIONS Box 2, P.O., Austral, N.S.W, Australia Read and enjoy                         Health & Efficiency The   world's   greatest   100 page  sunbathing  magazine  SCORES OF PLATES in every issue PLUS the official news and pictures of  all  British  Naturist  Clubs Full Colour Cover 16 issues yearly including 4 special DOUBLE SIZE extra numbers Send NOW for specimen copy, 3/- post paid or 50/- post paid for 12 months HEALTH & EFFICIENCY Carlisle House, 8 Southampton Row, London, W.C.1, England

 

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Noted:- 

Perc Cousins: NZSA Visits the HB Sun Club

Perc Cousins: National Rallies in NZ

Perc Cousins: How to Join a Club

Joyce of Pineglades: We Are Naturists

14th Rally Wellington - 1966

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WHO'S WHO IN THE NZSA
LES GUYTON, OVERSEAS CORRESPONDENT WITH HIS WIFE AND FAMILY

BY THE WAY, HAVE YOU
PAID YOUR INCOME TAX YET?

NEVER MIND, THIS ONE'S ON ME

 

Photo: Roy Carson

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